In a worst-case scenario it would have used its feet like claws to tear into Helen, ripping her stomach open

RSPCA Inspector Michael Beatty

He said if the animal had been stressed it would have kicked and attacked her.

Two complaints have been received by the Aussie RSPCA from animal lovers in the UK concerned about the 7ft ostrich’s treatment. Many more have voiced their anger online.

RSPCA Inspector Michael Beatty, based near the camp, said the animal could have easily become distressed being kept in such a small space.

Corrie babe Helen flounced around outside the Cruelty Towers set for an hour before being persuaded by hosts Ant and Dec to take part, while the ostrich was waiting inside.

After eventually going in, she left after only a few seconds but pulled out a light bulb, plunging the room into darkness and apparently startling the animal.

Inspector Beatty, who has watched the episode, said: “The ostrich could have easily become distressed and lashed out, especially when it suddenly went dark.

“In a worst-case scenario it would have used its feet like claws to tear into Helen, ripping her stomach open.

“They attack the softest part of the body so it would have gone for her tummy.

“It’s what they do when they are threatened by dingoes in the wild.

“It would only have taken seconds. They are dangerous and powerful animals. She could have been seriously injured or even killed.”

An inspection was carried out by New South Wales-based RSPCA Inspector Alistair Hills on Friday. He said the ostrich was well looked after and did not suffer any stress.

If ITV is found to have breached any animal welfare rules – like it did when chef Gino D’Acampo slit a rat’s throat in 2009 – the programme makers could face a maximum of six months in jail and a £20,000 fine.